How to Chart Ratios

If you have a list of ratios that you would like to turn into a graph or chart, then you will need to convert the ratios to decimals first. Enter those decimals in organized cells in Microsoft Excel's spreadsheet program. Then select a graph or chart design located on Excel's graphics toolbar. You also can convert your ratios to decimals and draw free-form charts to represent your data. This project is a good exercise for children trying to learn how to work with ratios and decimals.

Things You'll Need

Calculator

Computer paper

Pencil

Ruler

Microsoft Excel Chart

Step

Convert all of your ratios to decimals. To do this you will divide the first number by the second number. For example, if your ratio is 10:2, you will divide 10/2.

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Step

Step

Enter the decimals you arrive at from dividing your ratios into cells "A3," "B3," "C3," "D3," and so on down the line.

Step

Highlight cell "A3" through "D3" by pressing "Shift" and the right arrow button. Click "Insert," followed by the "Column" button. Select a 2-D or a 3-D column by clicking the button once. Your converted ratios will appear in a bar chart on your screen.

Converting Ratios to Decimals

Step

Write down your set of ratios on a piece of paper. Each ratio will correspond with a letter that you will mark on a chart. An example of this is as follows:A -- 10:5B -- 24:4C --16:4

Step

Convert your first ratio to a decimal. To do this, type "10" in your calculator, the division symbol, and "5."

Step

Convert your second and third ratios to decimals using a calculator. The answers for A, B, and C are as follows:A -- 2.0B -- 6.0C -- 4.0

Make a Line Chart

Step

Draw a horizontal line across the bottom of your sheet of paper using a ruler.

Step

Connect the left end of the horizontal line with a vertical line along the left edge of the paper.

Step

Write numerals 1-6 along the vertical, y-axis. Write "A," "B," and "C" about three inches apart along the horizontal, x-axis.

Step

Plot your decimals. To do so, place your finger on "A." Then travel up your paper until you reach "2.0." Draw a dot. Place your finger on "B." Travel up to "6.0." Draw a dot. Place your finger on "C." Travel up your paper, and draw a dot at "4.0."